- Laparoscopy
Direct visualization of the ovaries and the exterior of the fallopian tubes and uterus by means of a laparoscope (a long, narrow, illuminated instrument) introduced through a small surgical incision below the navel, to evaluate any abnormalities. Surgical procedures may also be performed using this method.
- Laparotomy
A surgical incision through the abdominal wall, larger than that used in a laparoscopy, to allow visualization of reproductive structures for evaluation or surgery.
- Leiomyoma
a benign tumor of the uterus
- Leuprolide acetate
-
Leuprolide acetate (Lupron) - A GnRH analogue which stimulates the female hormones initially, then suppresses a woman's secretion of FSH and LH, thus creating a pseudo menopause. Lupron has been extensively used in the United States and has been found to increase the number of follicles, oocytes (eggs), and embryos obtained, with a decreased chance of cancellation of the cycle.
- Leydig cells
the cells in the testicles that make testosterone
- LH
Luteinizing hormone
the pituitary hormone that along with FSH causes the testicles in men and ovaries in women to manufacture sex hormones
- LH surge
the sudden release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes the follicle to release a mature egg
- LH-RH
Luteinizing hormone releasing hormone
A hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that acts on the pituitary to promote secretions of gonadotropins that in turn direct hormone and gamete production by the ovaries and testes.
- LUF Syndrome
Luteinized Unruptured Follicle syndrome
the failure of a follicle to release the egg even though a corpus luteum has formed
- Lupron
-
Lupron "down regulation" - A treatment cycle in which Lupron is used to suppress a woman's internal hormone secretion before injection of hMG to stimulate follicular development.
- Luteal phase
post-ovulatory phase of a woman's cycle; the corpus luteum produces progesterone, which in turn causes the uterine lining to secrete substances to support the implantation and growth of the early embryo
- Luteal phase defect
Failure of the endometrial lining of the uterus to develop properly after ovulation, due to inadequate function of the corpus luteum that may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus or may lead to early pregnancy loss.
This condition can be treated with progesterone.
- Luteinized Unruptured Follicle syndrome
the failure of a follicle to release the egg even though a corpus luteum has formed
- Luteinizing hormone
the pituitary hormone that along with FSH causes the testicles in men and ovaries in women to manufacture sex hormones
- Luteinizing hormone releasing hormone
A hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that acts on the pituitary to promote secretions of gonadotropins that in turn direct hormone and gamete production by the ovaries and testes.
